Dispatcher

First Student • Fairfield, CT

1d • $28 - $30 • Onsite

About The Position

First Student is hiring a Dispatcher in Fairfield, Connecticut, to coordinate daily operations for a fleet of 125 buses. The dispatcher helps keep service on schedule, supports drivers and monitors, communicates with school district customers and families, and responds to changing operational needs. The role involves frequent phone and radio communication, administrative work, and occasional backup driving when appropriately licensed and qualified.

The schedule is Monday through Friday, 5:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a two-hour break during the day. Pay is $28.00–$30.00 per hour. The position is subject to DOT drug testing and a physical, and requires English proficiency for job-related training, safety communications, policies, and documents. Benefits are subject to eligibility and applicable plan terms.

Requirements

• Three to five years of relevant experience, including dispatch, transportation coordination, terminal operations, or driving.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Exceptional verbal communication skills and patience when handling questions, concerns, and competing demands.
• Strong customer service skills and a professional approach to resolving problems.
• Basic knowledge of radio dispatch equipment.
• Computer proficiency and the ability to maintain accurate schedules and records.
• Ability to meet deadlines and make timely decisions as conditions change.
• Availability to work Monday–Friday, 5:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., with a two-hour break during the day.
• English proficiency for job-related training, safety communications, company policies, employment documents, and other work-related communications.
• Subject to DOT drug testing and a physical; DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 40 does not authorize Schedule I drug use, including marijuana, for any reason.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily bus and driver assignments to support on-time route coverage.
• Monitor service and respond to delays, coverage needs, and schedule changes.
• Handle heavy phone and radio traffic while communicating clearly and professionally.
• Coach and support drivers and monitors on daily operational concerns.
• Address scheduling concerns and driver complaints, involving the Operations Supervisor or Location Manager when needed.
• Serve as a communication contact between the location and its school district customers.
• Help resolve student pickup and drop-off issues.
• Assist with charter reservations, billing, driver payroll, and other administrative work as assigned.
• Support day-to-day supervision and special projects.
• Perform backup driving duties when needed and appropriately licensed and qualified.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
• Paid holidays and vacation time
• Employee Assistance Program
• PerkSpot discounts on cell phone plans, vehicles, travel, and more
• Access to earned wages before payday through Chime® MyPay at Work™
• Salt® Rewards Program for employee savings and rewards
• Training and opportunities to advance into operations, safety, and leadership roles

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED